Anonymous commentary is generally unhelpful

As I mentioned in a previous column, working in government means that everything is (or should be) open and “transparent.” Sadly, though, I believe the concept of transparency has been at best abused, at worst ignored, by many levels of government, especially at the state and federal level. Those governments, by their nature, are complex and it is simply too easy to say that processes or programs are transparent, but then “lose” components or facets in Byzantine bureaucracy. Local governments typically do not have excessive bureaucracies, but are not excused from abusing openness or transparency, either.While I must be open about town actions and activities, those who want to criticize government do not have to be open. Anonymous phone calls, letters and blogs are utilized by some to garner attention. I have various responses to anonymity.For the most part, although I will read such letters and listen to such messages, I rarely take any action as a result. These letters and messages are typically related to neighbor issues or vendettas, and the Town has no role to play in those circumstances. If a complaint is legitimate, however, I want to be able to discuss it with the author. If any further action is required, I, as the town manager, become the complainant and the person that brought it to my attention is irrelevant and need not be revealed.Another source of anonymous comments is local newspaper blogs. I read these comments very infrequently. I have found these comments to be largely uninformed and ignorant of how local government operates. Many of the comments, like the ones previously described, are vendettas. Due to the obvious desire for anonymity, writers also typically have an alternate agenda to promote, but should it become known that they were promoting it, their credibility would be reduced and the true nature of their agenda revealed.How many comments get posted in response to an online article? 15, 20, 50? The town has approximately 11,000 residents. Do the commenters believe that policies or programs will be swayed by such a small sample (some of which may not even be from town or may be postings by the same person under a variety of different names). I give ample credit to those who speak publicly at a Board of Selectmen meeting rather than the troublemakers or cowards that “stir the pot” behind a cloak of anonymity.Many newspapers, in an effort to minimize disruptive online behavior, have implemented the use of Facebook for comments. The cloak of anonymity is stripped. Guess what — more rational online discussions take place. I still believe that if you want information about government, though, simply call Town Hall.Our form of government relies upon public input, and such input should be greatly encouraged. How many of you attend public hearings? How many of you comment on those issues? Every major road project requires a public hearing. The annual budget requires at least two public hearings. By their name, these events are to “hear the public.” If we don’t hear from you, we make what we believe to be an informed decision based upon the best interests of the Town. In those cases, we then hear from the public that it was a bad decision or we didn’t consider certain factors. Well, you had your chance to comment and passed. Get involved and pay attention to what is happening around you.Realize also that most public comment is generally negative — those opposed to an action will be more likely to express that feeling than those in favor. Do not sit idly by if you support a project. Public comment is not only limited to speaking at a meeting. You can send a letter or email message to be included as part of the official public comments. Again, those messages must include your name and contact information.I enjoy the public engagement aspect of my profession. On many occasions, I wish that I could share a cup of coffee with everyone in town to discuss local government. That is not entirely practical, but if you would like me to speak to your group, please let me know. I prefer that the community make informed decisions rather than snap judgments.